Language is unique to humans - why? Just point me in the right direction, I have googled it and keep getting scientific articles, I don't understand. Thanks for your time
Language is unique to humans because behind those languages there are unique cultures. Also languages are unique because they are usually very different from your own language.
i hope that helped
Language is not unique to humans. You obviously don't live on a farm.
We have taught Chimpanzees, and apes to understand and communicate with american sign language, and a few of those taught it to their offspring.
Hens call their chicks to safety, to nest, and to eat with various sequences of sounds.
If you want more, you will get scientific articles.
You need to explore what you mean by language.
Perhaps you mean "abstract symbolic". Perhaps that is what some folks think, that a donkey can't appreciate an art work or piece of music. I don't know about that.
thanks that's a good start
Language is indeed a fascinating topic, and understanding why it is unique to humans requires exploring various disciplines such as linguistics, cognitive science, and anthropology. While I can't provide an exhaustive explanation in this limited space, I can certainly give you a brief overview and suggest some sources for further reading.
The uniqueness of human language can be attributed to several key factors:
1. Cognitive abilities: Humans possess a unique set of cognitive skills, including complex thinking, abstract reasoning, and the ability to generate and understand an infinite number of novel sentences. This cognitive capacity sets human language apart from any form of communication found in other animals.
2. Syntax and grammar: Human language relies on a sophisticated system of grammar and syntax. These structural elements allow us to combine words and create meaningful and grammatically correct sentences. For instance, the ability to differentiate between "The dog chased the cat" and "The cat chased the dog" relies on grammatical rules.
3. Semantics and symbolism: Human language goes beyond mere communication of immediate needs and desires. It allows us to express abstract concepts, thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. The use of words as symbolic representations of real-world objects and abstract ideas is a unique feature of human language.
4. Cultural transmission: Language is not innate but acquired through cultural transmission. Humans learn languages through exposure, interaction, and socialization with others who already possess language skills. Moreover, the richness and complexity of human language continue to evolve and be shaped by cultural, social, and historical factors.
To delve deeper into the topic, you can consider exploring books such as "The Language Instinct" by Steven Pinker, "The Symbolic Species" by Terrence Deacon, or "The Origins of Language" by Morris Halle and Noam Chomsky.
In addition to scientific articles, you might also find introductory linguistics courses or lectures online that can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the uniqueness of human language.